Thanks, Ira and Cchottel, There is the rub.

I had/have exactly that concern, is it too much move, move, move?

Here are my concerns on the other hand: If I day-trip, will I miss something special by not spending the night in these small towns?

If I day-trip, will I be spending significantly more for another night in my big-city hotel vs one night in the smaller town hotel?

I know I am being perhaps over-analytical but I do want to think this through. And I really appreciate all the responses.

oo

Your point might have some merit, but I don't have an answer. I'm not one for "night life". Unless there is a concert or a theater. I have never been to Padua, but have been to Siena (I love it and could stay there, but not if it was just one night -- I don't like moving that much). I believe these smaller towns are very busy during the day with all the day-trippers and then are much quieter in the evening.

Hmmmm, with that said, it sounds pretty appealing! Maybe you are on the right track afterall. So, I'm not saying you are wrong. Just what sounds better...

Strolling the quieter streets of Siena or Padua in the evening or wrestling with your bags and check-in and out's. I only take one small bag, which becomes two after a while with purchases. But I hate rolling that bag to and from train stations, when I could see almost the same things without that hassle.

Whatever you decide, you are in Italy and it will be wonderful!! I never travelled anywhere until middle-age. Oh, what I had missed, but I'm making up for it now when I can!

Olive oil,

Padova and Siena are not really "small towns." Padova in particular bustles and has modern development, and Siena is actually a Tuscan city. In November, you will not experience a crush of tourists in either place, and there is a limit to how much you want to be walking around at night, given the chill.

I agree with the suggestion that you do both towns as day trips to avoid the extra moving around. With Siena, why not plan to eat dinner there, and take the last bus or train back to Firenze? It will get dark fairly early at that time of year, and you will have a chance to experience the mystery of a medieval walled city, especially if you take time after dinner to stroll a little. But in November, you are likely to find it too chilly to do a lot of outdoor walking after dark.

Also, my husband taught me a rule of travel that I think is fantastic. If we found ourselves in Siena for a day, and so loved it we didn't want to leave that night -- we wouldn't! Even if we had a hotel room someplace else. In November, should you find yourself hating the thought of leaving, you shouldn't have any trouble finding an inexpensive room -- money you otherwise would have spent on things less important to you.

Just pack a toothbrush for you day trips.